We begin the day by picking you up from your hotel located in the city of Huaraz or meeting at the designated meeting point. From there, we embark on a journey of approximately two and a half hours’ northeast of Huaraz, traveling along scenic roads that pass through valleys and picturesque villages.
We will pass through Carhuaz, renowned for its artisanal ice cream, and the peaceful town of Shilla before entering the majestic Huascarán National Park, a protected area home to some of the highest and most spectacular mountains in the Andes.
Our destination is Punta Olímpica, a high mountain pass that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and glaciers. Here, we will park and prepare for the hike while the guide provides a safety briefing and gear check.
The first stage of the trek consists of an approximately one-hour hike across rocky terrain, crossing the glacier’s moraine. Along the way, you will witness a surreal landscape where rugged rock formations contrast with the dazzling white ice.
Upon reaching the glacier base, it will be time to gear up with crampons, harnesses, and ropes—essential equipment to ensure safety during the ascent. The guide will secure the group with ropes and give final instructions before we begin the climb.
Now comes the most exhilarating part: ice climbing to the summit, a challenge that takes about an hour. As we ascend, the sense of achievement grows stronger, and the views become increasingly spectacular. The combination of physical effort, fresh mountain air, and the sheer immensity of the landscape will make you feel like a true mountaineer.
Finally, we reach the summit of Nevado Mateo (5,150 m), where you will be rewarded with an absolutely stunning panoramic view. Towering before you is the impressive Nevado Contrahiervas, while in the distance, the beautiful Cancará Chico and Grande lagoons shimmer in brilliant turquoise, contrasting against the snowy landscape.
This is the perfect moment to take a deep breath, capture unforgettable photos, and enjoy the satisfaction of conquering one of the most accessible peaks of the Cordillera Blanca.
After spending time at the summit, we begin our descent along the same route, carefully following the guide’s instructions to ensure a safe return. Once back at the glacier base, we remove our technical equipment and hike back to our vehicle at Punta Olímpica.
From there, we board our transport back to Huaraz, where you can relax and relive the most thrilling moments of this unforgettable adventure.
